Question

Jan's sister and mother have both had breast cancer. She is wondering if she should undergo genetic testing to check for a mutation of the BRCA1 gene. A mutation in the BRCA1 gene is commonly associated with, but not guaranteed to cause, breast cancer. The presence of a mutation increases a patient's chances of getting breast cancer to about 85 percent, compared to a 13 percent risk in the general population. Costs may vary, but most labs charge patients or their insurance companies less than $3,000 to sequence the BRCA1 to look for mutations.
Do you think that Jan should undergo genetic sequencing? Explain your answer. (2 points)


What are potential pros and cons of having such tests done? (5 points)


Describe how the availability of genetic sequencing can affect the frequency of genetic diseases in individuals and populations. (3 points) (10 points)

Answer 1

A) Yes, Jan should undergo genetic sequencing.
BRCA1/BRCA2 are the causes of 20-25% of all hereditary breast cancers, so if Jan's mother and sister both have breast cancer, then the odds are that she has BRCA1 as well.

B) 
Pros: If she does have an abnormal BRCA1 gene, she can take steps to lower her risk of breast cancer.

Cons: The tests can incite discrimination towards her in the workplace, and having it known she has a risk for breast cancer can severely increase the cost of insurance.

C) Genetic sequencing could affect the frequency of genetic diseases because the test could point out --- I can't finish because I have to go. I'm so sorry, reask the url of this question and ask someone to finish. Have a nice day!

Answer 2

Answer:

Jan shall not undergo genetic sequencing unless she is positive for BRCA1 mutations.

Genetic testing is very beneficial in detecting genetic mutations before-hand and enables treatment. However, privacy of patient's genetic information is a must.

Genetic sequencing is highly beneficial for reducing genetic diseases.

Explanation:

Jan's have a family history of Breast Cancer which increases the likelihood of BRCA1 gene mutation in the patient. Hence, she is recommended to have genetic screening such as a mammogram yearly. However, genetic sequencing is not indicated for this patient yet until she is found positive for BRCA1 mutations after genetic testing and mammogram.

the pros of genetic testing is knowledge of BRCA mutations at an early stage. the Cons of genetic testing are not getting insurance coverage because of no obvious symptoms, and disclosure of genetic information, stigma.

Genetic sequencing is highly beneficial in reducing the frequency of genetic diseases. Many children at birth undergo genetic sequencing which gives successful results and they grow healthy.